I got a black band on my belt at the last ninja class. We are going over ways to "stand my ground", balanced and stable, against attack. This martial art was developed centuries ago in Japan to protect family and friends from senseless violence and modernized by Mr Hayes to fit this time in America. This program "emphasizes a sense of self-confidence, an enjoyment of discipline as the key to accomplishment, and an appreciation of the power of respect for all as a means of encouraging the students on to whatever their definition of success."
The very first code of action is, "I protect life and health. I avoid violence whenever possible." It's like one of my teachers, Mr. Merritt, said " I'd rather be a pacifist by choice." That pretty well sums it up for me.
I'm getting close to my silver award also: https://www.presidentschallenge.org/home_adults.aspx
I exercise regularly anyway so why not. It can be a pain to log in all the activities but I think its cool. I sent off for the shirt and medal and all when I got the bronze award.
I got in about 45mins on the new punching bag today. I'm still practicing the drill I had so much trouble with:(eyes on upper chest) Knock down their left jab with my right, throw strait right and left, throw right and left cross(elbows in), cover and bend the knees to protect from their left and right cross, throw right lateral shin kick to their leg/side. I worked on that the whole time today. I'm getting better.